Midbrain dopamine neurons encode decisions for future action.

Genela Morris; Alon Nevet; David Arkadir; Eilon Vaadia; Hagai Bergman

doi:10.1038/nn1743

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Midbrain dopamine neurons encode decisions for future action.

Genela Morris·Alon Nevet·David Arkadir·Eilon Vaadia·Hagai Bergman

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Abstract

Current models of the basal ganglia and dopamine neurons emphasize their role in reinforcement learning. However, the role of dopamine neurons in decision making is still unclear. We recorded from dopamine neurons in monkeys engaged in two types of trial: reference trials in an instructed-choice task and decision trials in a two-armed bandit decision task. We show that the activity of dopamine neurons in the decision setting is modulated according to the value of the upcoming action. Moreover, analysis of the probability matching strategy in the decision trials revealed that the dopamine population activity and not the reward during reference trials determines choice behavior. Because dopamine neurons do not have spatial or motor properties, we conclude that immediate decisions are likely to be generated elsewhere and conveyed to the dopamine neurons, which play a role in shaping long-term decision policy through dynamic modulation of the efficacy of basal ganglia synapses.

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Animals Behavior, Animal Decision Making Dopamine Electrophysiology Female Macaca Male Mesencephalon Neurons Probability Random Allocation Reward Saccades Journal Article Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

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Genela Morris, Alon Nevet, David Arkadir, Eilon Vaadia, Hagai Bergman. 2006-07-23. Midbrain dopamine neurons encode decisions for future action.. https://doi.org/10.1038/nn1743

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